Gabe Vasquez Faces Scrutiny Over 2021 Fossil Fuel Remarks as He Defends All-of-the-Above Energy
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 24
Gabe Vasquez Faces Scrutiny Over 2021 Fossil Fuel Remarks as He Defends All-of-the-Above Energy
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 24
Summary
A resurfaced 2021 interview shows Rep. Gabe Vasquez urging limits on natural gas and other fossil fuels, clashing with the all-of-the-above energy message in his re-election campaign.
Current campaign materials say the New Mexico Democrat backs oil and gas alongside clean energy, arguing a broader mix is needed as high prices and affordability dominate the race.
The shift carries weight in a competitive district tied to the Permian Basin, where oil and gas generate $13.1 billion in revenue and about $7.5 billion for New Mexico’s general fund.
Republican challenger Greg Cunningham seized on the contrast, accusing Vasquez of benefiting from an industry he previously criticized; Vasquez’s campaign said he stands by his current position.
Vasquez won re-election in 2024 by 52.1% to 47.9%, underscoring how energy politics could again shape one of the country’s tighter House contests.